Lion’s Mane Mushroom is a nootropic or a cognitive enhanere that is a staple of Chinese traditional medicine. More importantly, it is also edible on its own and, like many mushrooms, is a good source of proteins, vitamins, carbohydrates, and fiber.
Lion’s Mane has polysaccharides or bioactive compounds which reduce anxiety and depession. Research is still ongoing to prove claims that the lion’s mane mushroom can protect the body against cancer, heart disease, chronic atrophic gastritis, diabetes, and a whole host of other conditions.
While there is not a lot of scientific evidence regarding the health benefits of lion’s mane, the same can be said about its risks. At best, you can only find anecdotal evidence with users saying that it causes headaches and itchy skin, and that it might slow down blood clotting. Because not much is known definitively about this kind of mushroom, people should carefully manage their intake of this substance.